Bahiagrass
Paspalum notatum · Warm-season, Perennial, C4 grass
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Grass Category
Pasture/Forage Grass, Lawn/Turf Grass, Erosion Control
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 8-11. Excellent heat tolerance, poor cold tolerance (susceptible to winter kill below freezing for extended periods). Performs exceptionally well in the southern transition and subtropical zones.
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Panicoideae, tribe Paniceae
Variety / Cultivar
'Argentine' or 'Pensacola' (common pasture and low-maintenance turf cultivars)
About This Grass
Forms a coarse-textured, light-to-medium green sod. When unmowed, it produces distinct, V-shaped or Y-shaped seed heads on tall, wiry stems reaching 24-30 inches in height. Mowed turf is relatively sparse compared to Bermuda or Zoysia.
Blade Characteristics
Coarse texture with blade widths typically 4-8mm. Flat to folded shape with pointed tips. Color is light green to yellowish-green. Vernation is folded in the bud. The ligule is a fringe of hairs, and auricles are absent.
Root System
Extremely deep and extensive fibrous root system with tough rhizomes and stolons. Low thatch tendency once established. Fast establishment from seed, excellent drought tolerance due to deep roots, and good erosion control.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to South America (Argentina, Brazil); widely naturalized and cultivated in the Southeastern United States and tropical/subtropical regions worldwide
Growth Habit
Stoloniferous and rhizomatous, forming a tough, dense, low-growing turf with aggressive above-ground runners and deep root systems
Sunlight & Water Needs
Requires full sun (minimal shade tolerance). Moderate to high water needs for best appearance, but exhibits exceptional drought dormancy and survival. Prefers acidic, sandy soils but adapts to various soil types.
Mowing & Maintenance
Ideal mowing height is 2.0 to 3.0 inches. Requires frequent mowing during the summer growing season due to rapid seed head production on tough stems. Low fertilization requirement (2-3 lbs N per 1000 sq ft per year). Low overall maintenance level.
Special Characteristics
Good wear tolerance once established, high resistance to major turf diseases and insects (such as mole crickets compared to other warm-season grasses), moderate salt tolerance, excellent drought recovery, and good erosion control.
Ecological Information
Introduced species in North America. Provides good forage for livestock and grazing animals, wildlife cover, and excellent soil stabilization for sandy or disturbed soils. Can act as a persistent groundcover in low-input areas.